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A Case of Acute Traumatic Lumbar Paraspinal Compartment Syndrome
Deena D Wasserman1, Derek L Isenberg1
1Department of Emergency Medicine, Temple University Hospital, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
The Journal of Emergency Medicine
|July 25, 2018
Summary
Lumbar paraspinal compartment syndrome is a rare but serious condition causing acute back pain after trauma. Emergency physicians must recognize red flags for early diagnosis and surgical intervention to prevent severe outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Emergency Medicine
- Trauma Surgery
- Orthopedics
Background:
- Compartment syndrome is a critical complication of traumatic injuries.
- Back pain is a frequent emergency department complaint, often managed without advanced diagnostics.
- Lumbar paraspinal compartment syndrome represents a rare etiology of acute back pain.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the importance of recognizing lumbar paraspinal compartment syndrome in the emergency department.
- To emphasize the role of emergency physicians in identifying critical presentations of back pain.
Main Methods:
- Case report of a 43-year-old female patient with lower back trauma.
- Clinical examination, laboratory studies (rhabdomyolysis, acute kidney injury), and imaging were utilized.
- Surgical intervention via emergent fasciotomy was performed.
Main Results:
- The patient presented with symptoms and findings consistent with lumbar paraspinal compartment syndrome.
- Rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney injury were identified as complications.
- Emergent fasciotomy was necessary for treatment.
Conclusions:
- Early identification of lumbar paraspinal compartment syndrome by emergency physicians is crucial.
- Prompt diagnostic evaluation and surgical consultation are vital for optimal patient outcomes.
- Awareness of this rare condition aids in preventing significant morbidity associated with compartment syndrome.
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